Spencer warns of wasted legacy

Writing in The , Spencer who?˜won 63 caps for England and led the side during the 2010 World Cup, criticises the national union for?˜failing?˜to capitalise on the triumph in a number of areas.?˜

She writes: "Since the triumph in Paris, has the momentum continued? Was it really job done? So much that has happened in the past year has been disappointing, not just that the England team lost their dominance after RFU policy effectively split the squad in two, and (Gary) Street left his role.?˜We have failed to capitalise in other key areas."

She goes on to say that in keeping the World Cup as a 12-team format, World Rugby have missed the chance of shining a spotlight on emerging nations.?˜

Reflecting on the shifting focus to sevens, Spencer talks about the decision to remove the 20 sevens contracted players from the women's leagues this season, conceding that it is the right move but the impact on the domestic game could be tough.

"Our clubs need to become affiliated to established men??s clubs, to increase profile alongside established brands," she said.

"We need a national championship (it is split between north and south) to raise standards, profile and commercial possibilities.?˜